Update Your Will Week 2025

Is your will up to date? Here’s why it matters

A will isn’t just a legal document – it’s your voice, your wishes and your legacy. Yet many people don’t realise how quickly life changes, which can make an old will outdated and vulnerable to being challenged.

Why is it essential to have an up to date will?

Your will ensures that your money, property, and possessions go to the right people.

Having an up to date, well-drafted will is crucial to ensure your wishes are carried out in the way you’d like when you die. Knowing you’ve chosen what you want to happen can also help ease distress for loved ones left behind and minimise potential disputes.

When was the last time you checked yours?

Without an up-to-date will:

• Your estate could be divided according to the intestacy rules, which may not align with your wishes or the needs of your family
• Uncertainty could cause stress and legal disputes for your loved ones
• Your pets, digital assets, and even charitable donations may be overlooked

Think of your will as a living document. It should evolve as your life does.

When should you update your will?

It’s best practice to review your will every five years or after any major life event, such as:

• Getting married or entering a civil partnership
• Getting divorced or dissolving a civil partnership
• Becoming a parent or grandparent
• Buying a home or changing your financial situation
• Losing a loved one
• Starting a business
• You or a beneficiary obtaining a Gender Recognition Certificate

What should I do if I want to make changes to an existing will or create a new will?

If it’s been a while since you last looked at your will – or you don’t have one yet – now is the time to take action.

It’s important to speak to an experienced legal professional, such as an Accredited Lifetime Lawyer, as they’ll be able to advise on your unique, individual circumstances.

At Thackray Williams, our Accredited Lifetime Lawyers Nima Stepney, Claire Lovis and Andrea Kershaw offer specialist expertise in later-life legal matters. They provide personalised support with care, empathy, and attention to detail, ensuring your wishes are clearly documented and legally protected.

At Thackray Williams we aim to make the process simple, stress-free, and tailored to you, so you can plan for the future with confidence. Don’t wait until it’s too late, ensure your future wishes are in place today.

If you need to make or update your will, please contact a member of our Wills, Tax & Administration team on 020 8290 0440 for expert legal advice.